Downtown Phoenix to host inaugural SW Belgian Beer Fest

It’s almost time to pay homage to the bocks, pils, lambics, saisons, and other Belgian beers.

The inaugural Southwest Belgian Beer Fest is coming to Phoenix from noon to 6 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 9. The 21-and-older festival will take place at Events on Jackson, 245 E. Jackson St., and will feature international, national, and local breweries.

Residents can expect tastings of local Belgian beers found in Arizona on tap. Arizona Society of Home Brewers will be the benefactor and the supporting pour staff for the international beer samplings.

“Belgian Beer has been around for hundreds of years and has a rich history,” Chuck Noll, event creator, shared in a press release. “This event celebrates the deep appreciation for these types of beers, and we want to showcase the rich history and flavor possibilities with a multitude of activations, seminars, and tastings.”

In addition to various tastings the event will feature entertainment, seminars from beer experts such as Stu Stuart from Belgian Beer Me!, a science garden, and meet-and-greet spaces. Events and workshops run all day.

Also, several Belgian brewery representatives will be present to speak about their breweries and the culture and traditions of Belgian brewing.

Presale tickets are $60 for general admission and $90 for VIPs. Prices increase to $75 the day of the event for general admission.

General admission includes entrance at 1 p.m., a souvenir glass, and 20 samples from participating breweries. VIP includes early admission at noon, a souvenir glass, 20 samples from participating breweries, access to the VIP beer garden, catered food and treats (unlimited while supplies last), meet and greet with brewers and specialty beers from select breweries.

There will also be a designated driver ticket for $20 for those who want to experience the event without imbibing. The DD ticket includes complimentary soft drinks and water.

Uber will also offer a safe round trip transportation option to and from the event at a discounted rate to all guests. Restrictions apply.

Visit www.southwestbelgianfest.com .